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Portfolio Selection with Parameter and Model Uncertainty: A Multi-Prior Approach

Author

Listed:
  • Raman Uppal

    (London Business School)

  • Lorenzo Garlappi

    (McCommbs School of Business, University of Texas)

  • Tan Wang

    (University of British Columbia)

Abstract
In this paper, we show how an investor can incorporate uncertainty about expected returns when choosing a mean-variance optimal portfolio. In contrast to the Bayesian approach to estimation error, where there is only a single prior and the investor is neutral to uncertainty, we consider the case where the investor has multiple priors and is averse to uncertainty. We characterize the multiple priors with a confidence interval around the estimated value of expected returns and we model aversion to uncertainty via a minimization over the set of priors. The multi-prior model has several attractive features: One, just like the Bayesian model, it is firmly grounded in decision theory. Two, it is flexible enough to allow for different degrees of uncertainty about expected returns for different subsets of assets, and also about the underlying asset-pricing model generating returns. Three, for several formulations of the multi-prior model we obtain closed-form expressions for the optimal portfolio, and in one special case we prove that the portfolio from the multi-prior model is equivalent to a ?shrinkage? portfolio based on the mean-variance and minimum-variance portfolios, which allows for a transparent comparison with Bayesian portfolios. Finally, we illustrate how to implement the multi-prior model for a fund manager allocating wealth across eight international equity indices; our empirical analysis suggests that allowing for parameter and model uncertainty reduces the fluctuation of portfolio weights over time and improves the out-of sample performance relative to the mean-variance and Bayesian models.
(This abstract was borrowed from another version of this item.)

Suggested Citation

  • Raman Uppal & Lorenzo Garlappi & Tan Wang, 2004. "Portfolio Selection with Parameter and Model Uncertainty: A Multi-Prior Approach," Money Macro and Finance (MMF) Research Group Conference 2004 54, Money Macro and Finance Research Group.
    • Handle: RePEc:mmf:mmfc04:54
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions

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